A love letter to my daughter
My beautiful wife, Olga and I are only days away from the birth of our first child, a girl who we’ve named Sofia. This is a love letter to my baby girl…
My darling Sofia,
It’s nearly time for your birth. It’s extraordinary to love you so much without even having met you. Your Mama and I are beyond excited to lay eyes on you, our beautiful baby girl. You are our miracle baby.
After what seemed like an eternity, but only a year, you came to us. Our hearts were full, and we nervously watched you grow in your Mama’s belly. From 16 weeks, you loved to show us when you were happy or squashed, with hands and feet pressed against Mama’s womb. We loved knowing you were growing and so strong. Your Mama would chuckle whenever we were driving in the car, as you so adamantly shared that you hated being so squashed, feet firmly pressed against her belly and pushing out against her hands. My heart swelled with pride, knowing my daughter was strong, opinionated and healthy.
Your Mama, Olga, is my Queen. She is a lioness - a warrior and at the same time, the most loving, kind, generous and caring woman I’ve ever known. She is my home and is my love. She is beautiful beyond words. You should know that I’m totally and utterly smitten with her. I was from the first moment I saw her. With her, I feel complete.
Mama will teach you all about her homeland for you are half Australian and half Ukrainian. She and your grandmother, Elena, will guide you, and show you all that you need to know about what it is to be a Ukrainian. We hope that you speak their language, as well as mine. Their culture is beautiful, powerful, and elegant. They are fighters - and you will be too.
At 45, I’m an older Dad, but I’m your Papa. I’m not sure what sort of father I will be, but I know I will always love you, watch over and protect you. I am strong, born of Vikings and Scots and I will fight for you no matter where you are, no matter who.
I’m an emotional man, I love with all my heart and will show and tell you how much I love you. When you’re a teenager, you might want me to stop kissing you goodbye in front of your friends, but you will always be my baby girl. You are of both our blood and we are a family. That is truly the most precious gift and I thank God for this blessing.
Live life to the full, my darling, for time goes fast. Follow your heart, be bold, be strong, be confident. Love and laugh. Live life with humility and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable, for vulnerability is power. Learn to lead, and trust until you can’t. Be kind to those who are kind to you. Be dignified in your success. Be wise, but dare to follow your dreams.
I promise to be the best father I can be. I hope you will be as proud of me, as I will be of you.
All my love, your Papa.